by Anura Guruge
on February 25, 2023
The oft heard lament that ‘Acadia‘ is getting increasingly crowded really needs to be qualified. Acadia, as yet, is only crowded during the warm months & there is no question that during the height of Summer the Park is packed.
But, Acadia is deserted in February as I have now discovered two years in a row.
Last year, on a whim, I went up for a few days in the 3rd week in February. I had a blast. It was warm & empty (though it blew a gale on one of the days).
I kept a close eye on the weather & went up again earlier this week. Even better than last year. No gale. Very little snow & NO CROWDS. Both years I had one 50F day — & yes, in February.
I have found that between 7am to 8am the Park is empty. Both years I managed to walk the famed ‘Ocean Drive‘ during that window without seeing ANYONE or encountering any vehicles. All of Ocean Drive with ‘Sand Beach’ & ‘Thunder Hole’ all to myself.
I have also found that ‘Jordan Pond’ can be equally desolate. This year I ambled 3 miles along the west bank without meeting anyone. It is great.
Yes, I am used to the cold. But, it wasn’t that cold. One day in the 50s, the other two in the 40s & mid-30s. I can take that.
So, yet again, I just to let you know that IF you want to enjoy Acadia far from the maddening crowds go in February — BUT not during the 3rd week because that is MINE. I do NOT want YOU encroaching on MY PARK during my time there. OK? You got that? Thanks.
